Flax Seeds

Linum usitatissimum Seed/Grain

Flax Seeds Seed/Grain

At a Glance

  • Category Seed/Grain

The Forktionary Angle

"Ancient grain reborn as a modern superfood, offering unique binding properties and a powerhouse of nutrition."

Definition

Small, nutrient-rich seeds known for their high omega-3 fatty acid and fiber content, used as a health supplement and binder.

Omega-3 Content Excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an essential omega-3 fatty acid.
Shelf Life (Whole Seeds) Up to 1 year stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
Usage as Egg Substitute 1 tbsp ground flax seeds + 3 tbsp water = 1 "flax egg."

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Flax Seeds are:

Mild nutty earthy

Chef’s Secret

To achieve the best omega-3 absorption, always grind flax seeds just before use; whole seeds often pass through the digestive system undigested.

Best Substitutes

Chia Seeds

for binding/nutrition
Ratio 1:1

Hemp Seeds

for nutrition, less binding
Ratio 1:1

Psyllium Husk

for binding, use less

Buying Guide

Buy whole seeds and grind as needed for maximum freshness and nutrient absorption; store in the refrigerator.

Recipes Using Flax Seeds

Quick Breads Beginner Cook Number Of Servings Bananas

Banana Morning Glory Muffins Cooking Light

Indulge in these unbelievably delicious and healthy Banana Morning Glory Muffins, adapted from Cooking Light Magazine (July 2007)! These muffins are bursting with flavor from ripe bananas, juicy pineapple, crunchy walnuts, and chewy dates. Perfect for a quick and nutritious breakfast or snack, they're also incredibly versatile – feel free to experiment with substitutions! Plus, they freeze beautifully – grab one from the freezer for a ready-to-eat treat in just an hour. This recipe is a must-try for busy mornings and healthy snacking.

See Complete Recipe
Low Carb Low Cholesterol Preparation Low In Something

Tofu Fruit Smoothie

Start your day with this vibrant and surprisingly creamy Tofu Fruit Smoothie! Packed with protein from silken tofu, natural sweetness from fruits, and a boost of nutrients, it's the perfect healthy and delicious breakfast or snack. This easy recipe takes just minutes to prepare and is naturally vegan and gluten-free.

See Complete Recipe
4 Hours Or Less 4 Hours Or Less Pasta Rice And Grains Dinner Party

Banana Walnut Cake

Indulge in this moist and flavorful Banana Walnut Cake, secretly packed with goodness! Made with ripe bananas, wholesome wheatgerm (a fantastic source of Vitamin E!), and LSA mix (or ground flaxseed for a healthy boost), this recipe is a guilt-free treat the whole family will adore. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack, this cake is naturally sweetened and incredibly satisfying. Say goodbye to processed ingredients and hello to a healthier, happier way to enjoy cake!

See Complete Recipe
Number Of Servings Fruit Apples Course

Apple Butterscotch Cake

This moist and delicious Apple Butterscotch Cake recipe, originally from the October 2006 Nick Jr. Family Magazine, is a wholesome treat perfect for lunchboxes or an afternoon snack. Bursting with the flavors of autumn, this cake is made with nutritious ingredients and is surprisingly sweet on its own – though a dusting of powdered sugar adds a beautiful finishing touch! Get ready to bake up a batch of fall goodness.

See Complete Recipe
Course Low Carb Dietary For 1 Or 2

Almond Sunflower And Berries Shake

Fuel your day with this protein-packed, energizing Almond, Sunflower, and Berry Power Shake! Soaking the nuts and seeds overnight unlocks maximum nutrition and digestibility. This delicious and healthy breakfast shake, inspired by Dr. Joseph Mercola and naturopathic advice, is bursting with antioxidants and healthy fats. Made with organic ingredients for optimal benefits, this shake is perfect for busy mornings or a healthy afternoon pick-me-up. Get your energy boost the natural way!

See Complete Recipe
Summer Diabetic Equipment Beverages

Banana Power Smoothie

Fuel your day with our Banana Power Smoothie! This quick and nutritious blend is packed with potassium and fiber, keeping you feeling full and energized longer. Perfect for a healthy breakfast, post-workout recovery, or a delicious anytime snack. Get your daily dose of fruity goodness!

See Complete Recipe
Number Of Servings Beginner Cook Course 15 Minutes Or Less

Berry Banana Protein Shake

Fuel your day with this delicious and nutritious Berry Banana Protein Power Shake! Packed with high-fiber and high-protein ingredients, this quick and easy recipe is the perfect way to start your morning or refuel after a workout. Blend up a creamy, berry-licious treat that's both satisfying and healthy.

See Complete Recipe
Breakfast Pancakes And Waffles Course 60 Minutes Or Less

Apple And Flax Pancakes

Start your day with these fluffy, flavorful Apple Flax Pancakes! Packed with apples for sweetness and flaxseed for a fiber boost, this recipe is a guilt-free breakfast treat the whole family will love. No more "yuk" factor – just delicious, healthy pancakes! Adapted from a Hyvee.com recipe.

See Complete Recipe
Breads Preparation Brunch 60 Minutes Or Less

Applesauce Oatmeal Muffin Tops Or Muffins

Start your day with these delicious and healthy Applesauce Oatmeal Muffin Tops or Muffins! Perfect for breakfast, a quick snack, or a satisfying brown-bag lunch. This recipe, adapted from a William Sonoma classic and improved with user feedback, combines the wholesome goodness of oats and applesauce with a delightful streusel topping. These muffins are incredibly versatile; bake them as mini muffin tops for a delightful bite or as larger muffins for a heartier treat. Get ready for a burst of flavor in every bite!

See Complete Recipe
Time To Make 30 Minutes Or Less Breakfast Course

Banana Nut Breakfast Cookies

Fuel your morning with these moist and chewy Banana Nut Breakfast Cookies! Packed with wholesome oats, crunchy nuts, and the sweetness of ripe bananas, these cookies are the perfect grab-and-go breakfast or a delicious afternoon treat. Easy to make and even easier to devour!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 3 Steps Or Less 15 Minutes Or Less Breakfast

Aunt Joanie's Weight Watcher 2 5 Points Antioxident Friendly Berry Smoothie

This delicious and refreshing berry smoothie is a Weight Watchers-friendly treat, clocking in at just 2.5 points per serving! Aunt Joanie's secret recipe is packed with antioxidants thanks to the blueberries (but feel free to experiment with your favorite frozen berries). Perfect as a filling mid-morning snack or a light dessert, this easy 5-minute smoothie will become your new go-to healthy indulgence. Get ready for a burst of fruity flavor and a boost of energy!

See Complete Recipe
Vegetarian Snacks 30 Minutes Or Less From Scratch

20 Minute Honey Granola Easy

This incredibly easy granola recipe is ready in under 20 minutes and will leave your kitchen smelling amazing! It's perfectly balanced—not too sweet—and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Boost the nutritional value by adding 2 tablespoons of wheat germ and 1 teaspoon of brewer's yeast (optional). Get ready to enjoy a crunchy, healthy breakfast or snack!

See Complete Recipe
Weeknight Breads Irish Dietary

Big Sur Bakery Hide Bread Recipe

Taste the magic of Big Sur! This recipe, inspired by Terry "Hide" Prince and the legendary Big Sur Bakery, delivers a dense, nutrient-packed bread bursting with flavor. Imagine a hearty, seed-studded English muffin, elevated with the unique coastal twist of kelp for seasoning. This isn't your average bread; it's a powerhouse of amaranth, millet, quinoa, flax seeds, and wholesome grains, offering a blissful buttery crunch after toasting. Adapted from a sea voyage recipe, this bread is surprisingly easy to make, even for beginners! Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a unique side, get ready for a taste of Big Sur in your kitchen.

See Complete Recipe
Occasion Main Dish Spicy 4 Hours Or Less

Amy's Meatloaf

Spice up your weeknight dinner with Amy's Healthy Meatloaf! This recipe takes a classic comfort food and adds a delicious kick with a vibrant, flavorful sauce. We've boosted the nutritional value with healthy ingredients, resulting in a juicy and satisfying meatloaf the whole family will love. Get ready for rave reviews!

See Complete Recipe
3 Steps Or Less Breakfast Easy Breads

Better Waffle

Elevate your weekend brunch with our Better Waffle recipe! This collaborative creation delivers fluffy, golden-brown waffles bursting with flavor. Easy to follow instructions and simple ingredients make this the perfect recipe for waffle lovers of all skill levels. Get ready for the most delicious waffles you've ever tasted!

See Complete Recipe
Scones Quick Breads Vegetables Equipment

Alla's Cranberry Scones Raw Foods

Dive into the vibrant world of raw vegan baking with this exciting Alla S Cranberry Scone recipe, adapted from Victoria Boutenko's "12 Steps to Raw Foods." These delectable scones require no oven – just your dehydrator! Enjoy the naturally sweet and tart cranberry flavor in a wholesome, guilt-free treat. Perfect for a healthy breakfast or afternoon snack.

See Complete Recipe
Occasion North American Brunch Vegetarian

Big Sur High Power Bars

Inspired by Heidi Swanson's legendary Big Sur Power Bars (from her iconic cookbook, 101 Cookbooks), this recipe is your customizable ticket to chewy, gooey, and intensely satisfying energy bars! Perfect for hikers, busy mornings, or anyone craving a naturally sweet and wholesome treat. These bars are delightfully soft and a little messy – embrace the delicious imperfections! Easily adapt to your favorite nuts, seeds, and dried fruits.

See Complete Recipe
Vegetarian Time To Make Dietary Egg Free

Aryn's Practically Vegan Pumpkin Bread

Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of fall with this deliciously dense pumpkin bread! This recipe, perfected through countless trials, offers a healthier twist on a classic. Made with flax eggs for a boost of omega-3s and naturally sweetened with brown sugar and xylitol (substitutable with all brown sugar), it's moist, flavorful, and practically vegan. Enjoy warm with a dollop of coconut oil or your favorite spread. Customize it with raisins, shredded carrots, or your favorite mix-ins for endless variety. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat!

See Complete Recipe